Still fresh off its 2015 opening, the InterContinental Dubai Marina faces stiff competition in hotel-laden Dubai, particularly in this neighborhood, which is dotted with high-end hotels and beachfront resorts. InterContinental takes a minimalistic-modern approach, and offers a slightly more refined business vibe than many of the nearby options. It's a skyline-changing property, housed in a narrow 39-story tower that's LED-lit at night, and most amenities are situated on lower floors. In the lobby, statement-making geometric sculptures in bright pink rise to the ceiling, and boxy, upholstered armchairs and couches are clustered near a row of reception desks. With so many on-site features, guests don't tend to dawdle in the lobby. The hotel attracts an even split of business travelers and couples, though multi-room apartments are a draw for families, too. 

The hotel is situated in the popular waterfront Dubai Marina area. It's a 10-minute walk or less to the Jumeirah Beach Residence District for the beach and The Walk, a pedestrian strip lined with shops and restaurants. Dubai Marina Mall and the train station are about a 12 minutes on foot. A light rail station also sits directly outside the hotel. Business areas like Media City and Internet City are as little as a 10-minute drive to the north, depending on traffic. Major attractions in Downtown Dubai, like Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, are a bit of a hike at a 20- to 40-minute drive, though it's a fairly straight shot on public transit, which takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour. Dubai International Airport is about an hour via public transit, or a 30- to 50 minute drive. 

Guest rooms at InterContinental Dubai Marina are sleek and contemporary, with a crisp, refined look. Some units feature all-neutral decor, but the range of hues mixed with chic, dark-wood furniture makes them inviting. Smarter rooms are accented with bright-pink love seats, bed runners, and bolsters. Upscale amenities include flat-screen TVs, Nespresso coffeemakers, electric kettles, minibars, bathrobes and slippers, plus free Wi-Fi. Attractive glass-walled bathrooms can be closed off from the bedrooms with electric blinds, and feature bidets, spacious rainfall showers, and separate tubs, plus hairdryers, and toiletries. 

Suites and residences add extra style and space, including seating areas and fully equipped kitchenettes. Some are huge with three bedrooms, dining areas, and multiple balconies and bathrooms. Units are roomy, but while many offer astounding marina views, others overlook uninspiring roads.

This property has extensive upscale amenities that cater to its well-heeled clientele. The outdoor pool overlooking the marina is a highlight. It's surrounded by lounge areas, although sun worshipers should note that it's shaded for most of the afternoon. There's also a small full-service spa, which has a jacuzzi, steam room, and private treatment rooms, and a well-equipped gym with separate cardio and weightlifting areas.

For dining, the property boasts nine dining and drinking establishments. Restaurants include Accents, which has a grab-and-go deli, and where the hotel's breakfast buffet is served for a fee. Marina Social is popular with guests and non-guests alike, and offers exceptional Marina views. Reservations are recommended. Late night drinking spots include The Social Room, known for its whiskey collection, and the moody Urban Lounge, with an outdoor terrace. There's also the hip Ynot Bar and Kitchen, and the gin-focused Ginter. For cocktails or coffee, guests can hit the lobby bar, The Gallery. 24-hour room service is available. 

Other features include a staffed business center and nine meeting rooms, and an exclusive 39th-story Club Lounge for guests staying in club-level rooms. The hotel offers concierge service, an on-call doctor, and private limo service for a fee, but there's no charge for valet parking or Wi-Fi throughout.